The Complete Window Inspection Checklist: What to Check and How Often

Have you recently installed new windows and want to plan everything ahead to ensure they survive beyond their lifespan? It’s only natural to do so! After all, you’ve invested time and money in this home improvement project, so it’s no surprise you want to do this by the book! Or maybe your windows are approaching the end of their lifespan, and you want to make sure they still perform well, and who knows, they may even outlive their warranty.

A complete window inspection should cover the frame, glass, hardware, locks, screens, seals, caulking, weatherstripping, flashing, and signs of air or water leakage. Inspect both the interior and exterior of each window and address any cracks, drafts, condensation, or operating problems promptly.

Ready to assess your windows? Let’s dive into the key steps for a comprehensive inspection!

Key Takeaways

• The most important things to assess while inspecting your windows are the frame, the hardware, the glass, the screens, and the insulation.
• Check for gaps, cracks, paint peeling, drafts, and water infiltration.
• If you spot any issues, try address them as quickly as possible. You might have to repaint wooden windows, lubricate window hardware, or replace old caulking/weatherstripping.
• If you notice problems you can’t fix yourself, contact an expert for professional advice. If you have Magic windows and notice they don’t perform at their best, contact us as soon as possible.

Window Inspection Checklist

Here’s a comprehensive window inspection checklist that will help assess any unit’s functionality, operation, and insulation.

1. Window Operation & Function

• Open and close the window to make sure it operates smoothly.
• Check that the window opens and closes fully.
• Make sure the sashes are properly aligned and do not rub against the frame.
• Test all handles, cranks, hinges, latches, locks, and other operating hardware.
• Check that locks engage securely.
• Test safety stops or opening restrictors, if present.
• Check for loose, missing, damaged, or corroded hardware.
• Look for unusual noises, sticking, or excessive resistance when operating the window.

2. Window Glass

• Check for cracks, chips, scratches, or other visible glass damage.
• Look for condensation or fogging between insulated glass panes, which can indicate a failed seal.
• Check that the glass is securely held within the frame.
• Inspect Low-E coatings or other glass coatings for visible damage, if applicable.
• Check window film for bubbling, peeling, scratches, or discoloration, if applicable.
• Look for signs of moisture or staining around the glass and glazing area.

3. Window Frames

• Inspect the interior and exterior frame for cracks.
• Look for warping, bowing, or other deformation.
• Check for gaps between the frame and surrounding wall.
• Look for water stains or signs of moisture damage.
• Inspect wooden frames for rot, soft spots, peeling paint, or deterioration.
• Check painted frames for flaking, cracking, or peeling.
• Inspect vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, or composite frames for visible damage.
• Make sure the frame remains securely attached to the surrounding structure.

4. Sashes, Sills & Stools

• Check if the sashes are aligned and operate smoothly.
• Inspect the interior stool for cracks and water damage.
• Check exterior sills to make sure they slope away from the house and have no gaps or standing water.
• Make sure water can drain away from the window rather than toward the interior.
• Look for gaps or separation around sash components.

5. Caulking & Weatherstripping

• Inspect the caulking on both the interior and the exterior of the window.
• Check if caulking is cracked, peeling, or shrinking.
• Check for any visible gaps between the frame and surrounding wall or trim.
• Inspect weatherstripping. Look for cracks and signs of deterioration.
• Make sure that the weatherstripping makes proper contact when the window is closed.
• Replace deteriorated caulking or weatherstripping where appropriate.
• Do not seal drainage openings such as weep holes.

6. Drafts & Air Leakage

• Close the window, and then check for noticeable drafts around it
• Inspect the frame, sash, and opening areas for visible gaps through which air may enter.
• Pay particular attention to drafts that appear during windy weather.
• If drafts persist after sealing, consider professional assessment for air leakage.

7. Water Infiltration & Moisture

• Look for moisture damage around the interior of the window, as well as on the nearby walls, ceilings, floors, and trim.
• Look for mold or mildew around the window.
• Inspect the exterior for gaps or damaged sealants that could allow water inside.
• Check the window sill for standing water or unusual moisture.
• Inspect after heavy rain if you suspect a window leak.
• Determine whether water is coming from the window itself or from surrounding walls, roofing, or other exterior components.

8. Weep Holes & Drainage

• Locate the window's weep holes or drainage openings (keep in mind that some windows don't have weep holes; they may have a different type of drainage system).
• Make sure they are not clogged and free of dirt, insects, paint, caulk, and other debris.
• Check that water can drain through the openings.
• Never seal weep holes with caulk or other materials.
• Check for signs of water backing up around the sill.

9. Flashing & Exterior Installation

• Inspect visible flashing around the window for damage or deterioration like gaps, corrosion, or separation.
• Check the surrounding exterior sealant for cracks or deterioration.
• Look for staining or damage on siding, brick, stucco, or other materials surrounding the window.
• Check for signs that water is collecting around the window opening.
• If you suspect hidden flashing or installation problems, have the window professionally assessed rather than attempting to remove exterior components yourself.

10. Window Screens

• Check insect screens for tears or holes.
• Look for bent, warped, or damaged frames.
• Make sure screens fit securely.
• Check that screen clips, pins, or other fasteners work properly.
• Clean screens and remove accumulated dirt and debris.
• Replace severely damaged screens.

11. Hardware & Moving Parts

• Check hinges, tracks, cranks, rollers, handles, and locks for dirt or debris.
• Tighten loose screws where appropriate.
• Lubricate moving components according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Use the appropriate lubricant for the particular window component.
• Check that rollers and tracks move smoothly.
• Do not force a window that is difficult to operate; investigate whether the issue is caused by debris, damaged hardware, or frame distortion.

If you need help inspecting your Magic windows or suspect they may be insulated improperly, don’t hesitate to contact us!

But why is this inspection important, and how can it affect your windows’ lifespan? Let’s see!

How Often Should You Inspect Your Windows?

Inspect your windows at least once or twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. You should also inspect them after severe weather, renovations, or whenever you notice drafts, condensation, leaks, difficulty operating a window, or visible damage.

Why Should You Inspect Your Windows?

Inspecting your windows regularly is undoubtedly a must – whether they’re new or old.

If you’ve just completed a window installation project, you probably want to make sure your new acquisition will live up to your expectations. If the windows are rather old, inspecting them regularly can help you prolong their lifespan. Either way, as we’ve mentioned, it’s mandatory. And here’s why!

Checking the Frames

Regardless of the material, the frames should be inspected regularly and, if needed, maintained. While some materials are low-maintenance (the Hybrid Fusion Frame, for example), others (wood windows) require regular repainting.

If the frames are neglected, they won’t function properly anymore. Frames are there to support the windows and hold the glass panes together, so you definitely don’t want them dying out before the windows reach their maximum lifespan.

If you need to add anything to your window maintenance checklist regarding the frames, ensure to do so depending on the material.

In addition, regular inspection can help you notice signs of warping. Warping can alter the window’s perfect fit within the rough opening, so you’ll have to address this promptly. You may have to seek professional help for advice on what you should do next.

Inspecting the Hardware

If you make it a habit to inspect the hardware of your windows every once in a while, you can prolong their lifespan, as well as make sure you’re safe inside the house.

If the window doesn't have well-functioning hinges, tracks, turn handles, locks, cranks, and safety stops, it won't operate as needed and its safety will be compromised. You may need professional repair or even new window installation.

Ensuring Proper Sealing and Insulation

Window sealing and insulation are vital for your home’s energy efficiency. They ensure that the windows are well-insulated against air leakage and water infiltration.

Proper weatherstripping and caulking prevent mold growth and ensure the structure’s integrity. In short, if you don’t address sealing and insulation issues as soon as possible, there’s a risk of further damage, which can make the window unrepairable. In this case, you’ll have to replace the windows altogether and even repair other damage caused by air and water leakage.

Glass and Coatings

Naturally, if there are any problems with the glass and the coatings, you should solve them as quickly as possible. Don’t neglect a cracked window – over time, it can affect the entire unit’s integrity.

In addition, if you notice condensation between glass panes, there may be a problem with the window insulation – if you can’t find or solve the issue, you should contact a professional or the window manufacturer if the windows are still under warranty. The same is valid for coatings – if they’re scratched or have suffered any damage, they won’t perform as intended.

Window Maintenance Checklist: A Wrap-Up

We’ve prepared an inspection checklist, and we’ve convinced you how important it is to address issues promptly, so why not turn our attention to a window maintenance checklist? Here’s what to consider:

• Repaint wooden frames, fill cracks with an epoxy wood filler using a putty knife, and follow any other instructions you’ve received from the manufacturer.
• Clean the windows with solutions suitable for your windows’ material to avoid damaging them – for example, if you have Magic windows, just use our Magic cleaning solution, whose formula is perfect for our Hybrid Fusion Frames.
• Clean the window screens to remove dirt and other debris like insects.
• Clean the tracks, the crank mechanism, or other parts if you notice any debris and dirt because they may affect their proper functioning.
• If you notice any loose screws or sticking hinges, fix them.
• Apply lubricant on any movable parts if needed.
• Apply a non-oily lubricant on the tracks of a sliding window if you feel any resistance while trying to open it.
• If you still struggle with window operation after lubrication, consider seeking professional help.
• Clean exposed metal components to minimize corrosion.
• Clear the weep holes with a wire.
• Replace weather stripping and caulking if necessary.
• Replace any cracked glass panes.
• Replace the screens if they’re broken.

For a more comprehensive window maintenance checklist, you can read our guide on this topic.

When Should You Repair or Replace a Window?

If you notice minor problems like dirty tracks, worn weatherstripping, loose hardware, or deteriorated caulking, you can usually repair them.

Replacement may be necessary if the frame is severely damaged or warped, if the insulated glass unit has failed, if the window is difficult to operate even after having been repairs, or if the unit has persistent air or water leakage.

Got Magic Windows? Here’s What to Do If You Notice Any Issues!

If you have Magic windows and notice any issues, such as:

• broken or cracked glass (that hasn’t been damaged by external factors)
• broken insect screens, solar shades, or retractable blinds
• condensation between panes
• failed weather stripping

you should contact us at 647-362-1602 for a solution. All of the above components are covered by our 40-year warranty, so we’ll assess the problem promptly and provide you with a solution.

If you don’t have Magic windows (but you probably want some – they are, after all, quite revolutionary!), don’t hesitate to contact us for a free in-home consultation! One of our experts will assess your windows’ condition and advise you if a new window installation is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do inspectors look for in windows?

When checking windows, inspectors examine every window part – the frame, the sashes, the glass, the hardware, the weather stripping, and the caulking. They’ll check for gaps, cracks, water infiltration, and air leakage.

How often should I lubricate my window tracks and hinges?

You should lubricate your window tracks and hinges at least once a year for smooth operation. If you experience difficulty in opening or closing your windows, it’s time to lubricate them.

Can I use any cleaning solution on my windows?

Yes, you can use commercial cleaners or a homemade solution of water and dishwashing liquid, but you should avoid abrasive cleaners to prevent damage to the window finishes. If you’re not sure what solution is suitable for the material of your window frames, follow the instructions provided by the window manufacturer.

What should I do if I find cracks or gaps around my window frame?

Inspect the window frame for cracks or gaps and use caulk or weatherstripping to seal them. If the damage is significant, it’s wise to seek professional assistance.

How can I prevent my windows from getting stuck?

To prevent your windows from getting stuck, clean and lubricate the movable parts regularly and ensure that the windows are not warped or damaged. Regular maintenance can help keep them in good working condition.

Is it necessary to check the window’s flashing?

Yes, it is necessary to check the window’s flashing regularly to prevent water leakage and potential damage to the interior of your home.